Reading, writing and revolvers: two very different tax-break bills in the House

Rep. Dan Pabon was only too happy to point out he introduced his bill to create a sales-tax holiday for back-to-school supplies while a Republican colleague was proposing the very same tax break — for guns.

The measure from Pabon, a Denver Democrat, would create a one-day exemption from state sales tax for school supplies, clothing and sports equipment. The bill from Rep. Clarice Navarro-Ratzlaff of Pueblo would create a two-day exemption from state sales tax for firearms, ammunition and revolvers, and is aimed for the start of hunting season.

“It’s about contrasts. That’s what it comes down to,” Pabon said. “We’re talking about backpacks and they’re talking about bullets.”

“I’m just trying to help out small businesses in Colorado,” Navarro said.

Both measures were introduced in the Colorado House today. Navarro supports Pabon’s measure but he’s not a fan of hers.

“While we are focused on making sure families have the school supplies they need, my Republican colleagues are focused on solutions in search of problems and retreading divisive issues,” Pabon said.

Tax breaks for gun sellers? Why not tax breaks for dry cleaners, local restaurants, all independent small businesses? Why single out gun sellers? Given the record numbers of gun sales in Colorado last year, I don’t think they’re hurting for revenue or that gun buyers are being driven off by a 2.9% state sales tax. This a nothing more than a political stunt designed to appeal to voters in an election year.

A political stunt? You say that as if it were a bad thing. But if nothing else, when a politician proposes a tax break for gun purchases it certainly shows which way they think the gun control winds are blowing, doesn’t it?

Joey Bunch has been a reporter for 28 years, including the last 12 at The Denver Post. For various newspapers he has covered the environment, water issues, politics, civil rights, sports and the casino industry.